Roll up for the Fleet Show

BRITAIN'S fleet decision makers will be able to see 14 new models for the first time in the UK at this year's Fleet Show at London's Alexandra Palace from May 1-3.

About 100 of Britain's leading fleet companies will be exhibiting at the show, now in its 19th year, including the country's largest fleet management company ARVAL PHH, the AA, Auto Windscreens (recently bought by the RAC), auction houses BCA Europe and Manheim Europe, Ford Credit, HSBC Vehicle Finance, Kwik-Fit Fleet and Thrifty Car Rental. However, it is the decision of several major vehicle manufacturers to make the show the launch venue for a number of their key new models which underlines the importance of the event.

Eighteen manufacturers are exhibiting at the show. MG Rover and Mercedes-Benz head the list for the most debut models on their stands, with four each, but other new cars include strong fleet contenders such as the Jaguar X-type, which goes on sale on May 23, and the all-new Nissan Primera, which appears in showrooms next January.

Nissan will show the new Primera to existing customers and invited guests and use their feedback to help decide the final specification and pricing of the car, which will be appearing for the first time outside Japan.

MG Rover will use the show as a launch-pad for its new range of MG saloons, the ZR, ZS and ZT, while the Rover 75 Tourer will make its first public appearance.

Visitors to the Mercedes-Benz stand will be able to see the revised A-class, in both standard and long-wheelbase body styles, along with the new C-class estate and Sport Coupe. Reliant Cars will make its show debut with three vehicles, including the Ligier Ambra microcar and the electric Reva town car.

Honda will be unveiling its new Civic-based Stream MPV for the first time in the UK and Volvo will give fleet managers the first chance to see the latest bi-fuel version of the V40 estate before its launch later in the month.

Tickets for the Fleet Show are available by calling the ticket hotline on 0870 4294376 or by visiting the show website at www.fleetshow.com